In prehistoric times, these formidable beasts roamed much of North America. Their population was believed to be as high as 60 million when Columbus arrived.

Many Native American tribes consider the bison a sacred symbol of their history. The animal sustained indigenous people, providing food, clothing, shelter, and fuel.

Nineteenth century artist Karl Bodmer created this print of Mandan Indians performing the Bison Dance, an annual festival for many tribes indigenous to the North American Plains.
Karl Bodmer/Wikimedia Commons